FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in February. Here’s a look at Florida OC Jake Slaughter.
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2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Jake Slaughter
Jake Slaughter (OC – Florida)
6’4″ – 303 lbs.
Background
Three-star recruit and Florida native who redshirted in 2021 and played sparingly in 2022 before starting eight games in 2023, all at center, and finishing the season with two sacks, two hits, and five hurries allowed on the year (2-2-5), per PFF. Reprised that center role in 2024 (1-0-8), also being named a team captain prior to the season, and in 2025 (1-1-2).
Positives
Solidly-built center with nearly three years of SEC starting experience and a tough, lunchpail-style temperament. Rangy center with some explosiveness out of his stance to work up to the second level and engage, or to pull out in space for runs and screens. Shows impressive short-area quickness to cross a defender’s face and seal them away from the play direction, with a good feel for positioning. Has solid power in his hands and upper body to twist defenders out of the hole, with good functional strength overall. Strong grip allows him to sustain blocks well when positioned effectively. Can generate solid movement when he fires out low and keeps his feet churning; flashes potential as a phone-booth mauler. Works hard through the whistle. Form on passing downs is generally sound, with a wide base and straight back. Shows impressive lateral quickness to mirror in pass protection. Drops an early anchor against power, with solid lower-body strength to hold the point. Active and accurate with his punch. Aggressively seeks out opportunities to help when unopposed. Awareness and processing show his experience.
Negatives
Hasn’t started any games at any other positions along the line. Can play a bit out of control at times, getting overly aggressive rather than waiting to engage until defenders are inside his frame; puts too many snaps on tape where he’s lunging, creating balance issues. Could be more consistent about keeping his pad level low and his feet churning after contact to maximize his power and its effects; a bit reliant on his upper-body strength at times. Penalties ticked up this past season, being flagged on seven occasions, and hand placement can find its way outside a bit.
Summary
A big center with a strong grip and impressive functional strength, he is capable of moving defenders in a phone booth, while also offering impressive quickness and movement skills to get out in space. Those traits could make him an effective starting center at the next level, although he’ll have to improve his overall consistency in a few areas as well, cutting down on penalties, maintaining a low pad level, and playing with better patience in space. Looks like he’ll receive some second-day consideration as a pivot whose physical/athletic tools give him a relatively high ceiling.
Projection: Round 3-4
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